Summer is almost here, which means many of us will be spending more time outdoors and in and around water. While many are aware of the importance of safety around pools and at the beach, parents also need to supervise their children near bathtubs.

Drowning is the leading cause of death in children ages 1 to 4 and is the second leading cause of death for children 5-14 (Injury Facts, 2015)

Most drowning and near-drowning incidents happen when a child falls into a pool or is left alone in the bathtub (Injury Facts, 2015)

Water safety should be practiced with adults, as well. According to an American Red Cross survey, only 56% of adults who say they can swim are able to perform five critical water-safety skills that could save their lives. These skills include:

Floating or treading water for one minute without a flotation device

Stepping or jumping into water over your head and returning to the surface

Treading water or floating in a full circle and then finding a way out of the water

Exiting a pool without using a ladder

Swimming 25 yards without stopping

Are you able to perform these activities? If not, it may be time to learn or practice these skills at your local YMCA or other swim program with certified swim instructors. If you are in the Great Lakes region, you can reach out to the Great Lakes Surf and Rescue Project.

Tips for Children and Adults

For Children and Parents:

Always watch your child while he or she is bathing, swimming or around water

Gather everything needed (towel, bath toys, sunscreen) before the child enters the water; if you must leave the area, take the child with you

Empty all buckets, bathtubs and kiddie pools of water immediately after use and store them upside down and out of your child's reach

Additional water safety resources:

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